The Czech firm plans a range of new models in a bid to sell 1.5 million cars a year by 2015, writes PADDY COMYN
TWO NEW models have been launched in the Skoda Yeti range and these make up part of a strong model line-up for 2011, which will include a new 4.9 per cent finance offering on Yeti models. Skoda, as part of the Volkswagen Group, will offer finance through their own bank.
Skoda have a 5.5 per cent market share in Ireland, which is twice the western European average and speaking at the launch of the new Yeti range, Zac Hollis, its brand director, said that they hope to reach 7 per cent market share here by 2015.
The two new models in the Skoda Yeti range are a 1.6-litre TDi Greenline (right) that has 105bhp and replaces the 2.0-litre 100bhp diesel. It has emissions of 119g/km which means it sits in motor tax band A.
The car features stop-start technology, low-rolling resistance tyres and brake energy recuperation. Prices start at €23,165 for the Greenline Active, €24,125 for the Ambition model and €26,035 for the Experience model.
Also on offer for the first time is the 4x4 version. It comes with a 2.0-litre diesel putting out 170bhp and with emissions of 155g/km, it sits in motor tax band C.
There are Ambition and Experience specifications available for this model and prices are €29,545 for the Ambition and €31,480 for the Experience.
Skoda sold 775,000 cars worldwide in 2010, but has ambitions to sell 1.5 million by 2015. They will launch several new models to the line-up between now and then.
A small A-segment car which will take on the Ford Ka and Toyota iQ will go on sale in 2013, followed by a replacement to the Skoda Octavia that same year. A new version of the Skoda Roomster comes in 2014 and that same year a new version of the Fabia will arrive.
The new Yeti models are now in dealerships and will be available for January delivery.